Bottom Line
We have extensive experience with Helinox products, and they are a top brand in lightweight camping gear. The Helinox Table One Hard Top is no exception. It is designed to be incredibly lightweight and durable, appealing to casual backpackers or minimalist car campers.
It packs down and weighs about the same as a liter of water, folding out to provide enough space for drinks, a meal for one person, or several smaller items from your backpack.
The polyester tabletop is sturdy and reliable for keeping drinks upright, but it’s not easy to wipe clean, so avoid spilling honey on it. (Like we did!) While the price may cause sticker shock, we found that after a season of use, the wear and tear were minimal, even after being blown around in the wind and dropped several times during transit. This table is built to last for years.
Read our best camp table gear guide to learn more about other options we tested.
How We Tested
We camped for a winter season in the Rocky Mountains in wind, snow, and freezing temperatures, putting this table to the test in harsh weather and rocky, unstable terrain.
Quick Specs
Helinox Table One Hard Top
Lightweight, Compact, and Durable Camp Table
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $170
Dimensions (LxWxH): 29.9 x 22.4 x 19.7 in.
Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz.
Material: Aluminum alloy and polyester
Weight Capacity: 110 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight
- High weight capacity
- Sturdy
- Compact
Cons
- Pricey
Stability & Durability
The Helinox Table One Hard Top excels in both stability and durability. The DAC aluminum alloy poles are sturdy and remain stable on uneven ground. The rigid polyester top can support several items, as we discovered when making hot toddies and having a few full glasses, a bottle of whiskey, and some condiments for the drinks.
The materials are also extremely durable, as after a season of being blown around by the wind, dropped, and packed away, the table showed only minor wear and tear.
Surface Area & Weight Capacity
The Helinox Table One Hard Top is a good size for solo dinner or as a practical side table. Despite being lightweight, it has a weight capacity of 110 pounds, making it difficult to find another portable table that can hold as much weight.
Portability
Helinox is known for its lightweight gear, and at 1.81 pounds, you would be hard-pressed to find a lighter table than the One Hard Top.
It packs down small and weighs about the same as a liter of water, making it very easy to carry, pack into a backpack, or toss into a packed vehicle.
Height
At 15 inches, the Helinox Table One Hard Top’s height is limited, as you can only sit at it with lower camp chairs or on a blanket picnic style. We didn’t find this to be a problem, as we comfortably ate meals on it and found it was the perfect height for a side table to hold beverages, electronics, or even play a game of cards around the campfire.
Ease of Setup
The setup of the Helinox Table One Hard Top is similar to a tent. The alloy poles snap together easily, and the polyester top unfolds and stretches to click into the top of the frame.
Should You Buy the Helinox Table One Hard Top?
If cost isn’t a concern and you’re looking for a table that’s lighter, stronger, and more compact, the Helinox Table One Hard Top is an excellent choice for solo backpackers or car campers. It will last for years and reliably keep your gear or food off the ground.
What Other Camp Tables Should You Consider?
Looking for more options? See our gear guide on the best camp tables.
GCI Outdoor Compact 20 Review: This is a super-affordable side table for campers on a budget. It is lightweight, packs down easily, and sets up even more easily.
Nemo Moonlander Dual Height Camp Table Review: Similar in price to the One Hard Top, this unique side table is portable, sturdy, and perfect for a minimalist car camper.
